THE REVERSE PITCH
The Reverse Pitch
supporting young voices and young professional choreographers
Our Reverse Pitch gives young people aged 13-20 years of age a voice in the creative decision making process at a VIP red carpet event specifically designed for them.
At a VIP red carpet event young minds get the chance to shape the future of dance. Four selected young professional choreogrpahers pitch their ingenious ideas to an audience of 13-20 year olds. The spotlight is on the choreographers but it is the audience that hold the reins. No adults are allowed.
The pitched ideas must be for new live dance works created with young people in mind, on topics or in styles of dance that they feel these young people are interested in. Each choreographer has 20-minutes to inspire the audience with their vision and demonstrate how their ideas materialize into breath-taking creations. Each pitch includes a question and answer session led by the young people and after the curtain falls, the young people vote for the pitch they would like to see developed into a live piece.
Presenting in the Reverse Pitch 2025 were, Billy Maxwell Taylor, Keira Sanderson and Gabriella Engdahl.
We are thrilled to announce the winner:
Billy Maxwell Taylor
The evening was a testament to the power of youthful imagination and artistic expression and it was Billy’s intention to find calm and stillness in a world saturated with information, that captivated the audience.
Not only will he receive a £2,000 commission to bring his idea to life, Billy will also join our Professional Artist Programme as an Associate Artist for 2026-2028 .
Congratulations Billy! Pictured right
The Pitching choreographers
The young professional choreographers are selected by a dance panel following a call out and recommendation process. The four shortlisted choreographers then pitch their idea at the Reverse Pitch event.
the four young choreographers will,
receive pre-event support
gain experience of preparing, pitching and discussing their choreographic ideas to the chosen target audience
receive a performers fee including expenses to enable to present at the event
The winning pitch
will receive
a £2,000 choreographic commission
free uncapped studio space for research & development and the creation and rehearsals of their piece
Mentoring and marketing support
work in a practical session/project with the young people from the Reverse Pitch (this will be a paid project)
premiere the finished piece where the young people will be VIP guests (this will be a paid event), and
join Swindon Dance as an Associate Artist
Reverse Pitch ‘25
Are you ready to dive into a world where young minds shape the future of art?
Brace yourselves for an exhilarating journey as applications open soon (autumn 2026) for, Reverse Pitch 2027. This extraordinary event, set to take place in 2027 at the Court Theatre, Swindon Dance, is the epitome of creativity, innovation, and collaboration, tailored specifically for the young generation aged 14 to 20.
For Participating Voters
Unveiling a New Artistic Choice
At Reverse Pitch, the spotlight is on the artists, and the audience holds the reins. Imagine this: 4 to 6 talented young artists, each armed with a 20-minute slot to captivate the audience with their ingenious pitches. The mediums of expression are boundless – from live performances that will leave you spellbound, to thought-provoking talks that challenge conventions, and cinematic marvels that transport you to another realm. It’s a celebration of art in its myriad forms.
Empowering Your Voice
But here’s the twist – you have the power to make a difference. After every artist has presented their vision, it’s your turn to be the judge. Cast your vote for the pitch that resonates with you the most. This isn’t just about appreciation; your vote determines which artist receives a £2,000 commission to bring their vision to life. Your voice is the catalyst for change in the art world!
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes
The excitement doesn’t stop with the pitches. Picture yourself sipping on delightful mocktails as you revel in a VIP evening, designed exclusively for you. Immerse yourself in the world of the artists and witness first-hand how their ideas materialize into breath-taking creations. Your journey doesn’t end with the applause; it extends into the heart of artistic transformation
For Participating Artists
The Details
This is an Application Only event
Pitching doesn't guarantee a commission!
Commission to produce a new live professional work for touring
Travel costs covered for presenting artists only
Must cater to the 14 to 20-year-old audience
Creative, topical, and expressive ideas warmly welcomed
Technical requirements discussed individually
Technical rehearsals on February 28th, 2025
Showcase in a mixed bill in 2026
Small performer's fee, details to follow
Young attendees invited to the mixed bill
What Awaits You?
We're on the hunt for four exceptional choreographers ready to unveil their innovative performance visions. And your audience? Imagine presenting your artistry to a select group of one hundred youths, aged 13 to 20.
But here's the twist – at the close of this unforgettable evening, these young visionaries will wield the power to decide who walks away with a coveted £2,000 commission. And that's not all; the winner will become part of our Professional Artist Programme, along with complimentary studio space, marketing assistance, and priceless mentoring from the Swindon Dance experts.
Pitch Your Vision
If your application shines, you'll grace this thrilling night and vie for the £2,000 commission. In your 20-minute slot, captivate the 13 to 20-year-old audience with your concept, and they'll cast their decisive votes. We embrace diverse dance styles and themes that resonate with this age group. Plus, a performance fee awaits the chosen work.
How To Apply
Submit a link to your work: plus, a letter detailing your/company
info, relevant experience, how your work aligns with Swindon Dance's ethos, and a work timeline
Apply by Video: If you prefer, send a video link showcasing your work and the requested information. Keep it under 5 minutes.
We actively encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and identities.
Support Provided To The Winner
£2,000 commission
Free studio space (first-come, first-served)
A place on our Professional Artist Programme
Marketing support from our Marketing & Communications team
A slot in a mixed bill at Swindon Dance (subject to funding)
Applications will open autumn 2